Wednesday, October 13, 2010

In With The New, Out With The Old

Most people don't know about Shipton & Heneage. I've talked about them once before, but for the most part they fly under everyone's radar. Established in 1989, S&H is now the UK's largest independent mail order footwear provider. They ain't no Crockett & Jones, Edward Green or John Lobb, but these guys have some pretty snazzy shoes. Basically, S&H sell high quality Goodyear welted shoes, while offering prices that often undercut their various UK competitors. So why am I talking about these guys again? Well, because they sell double monks of course. S&H just introduced a new style, called the Lowndes, and have put their older style, the Burford, on sale. No one should be surprised here. A brand spanking new model comes out and an older style is marked down so they can clear out whatever is left. The Lowndes is your typical "aggressive" style double monk that can be found at all the other brands mentioned above. It has a streamlined toe that is squared off in typical English fashion. The Burford, on the other hand, is much more analogous to the Allen Edmonds Mora in that is has a shorter natural toe. You can't go wrong with either style and superiority in this case corresponds with personal preference. Honestly though, I guess the purpose of this post is to direct you in the direction of the Burford. Its price drop coupled with its more "accessible" last makes it the best "beginner's" double monk I know of. The Lowndes is a great shoe, but a little pricey when you can get a pair of Crockett & Jones' for a little more money. Regardless of what shoes you are currently in the market for it never hurts to shop around. Especially when there's a discount club.

-L.A.S

[Editor's Note: The consensus is that the S&H Lowndes is actually manufactured by Crockett & Jones. Boom.]

I've had my eye on those Burfords for a while now, but I think I'll wait until I try on a pair of C&J. I wouldn't be surprised if C&J made those Lowndes. They look very much alike (slim last and slightly chiseled toe). I don't believe Shipton manufactures their own shoes (Grenson, Sargent, etc).

I have a pair of Lowndes in Black. They look awesome. But probably my next pair will be the above Herrings in dark brown. As a casual pair of shoes, as well as combined with a suit, would look appealing!